Thailand may not be the biggest country, but it is home to an incredible array of living organisms and their ecosystems. Approximately 10% of the world’s animals live there. And with one-third (previously two-thirds) of its land being rainforest, as you would expect, Thailand is an excellent habitat for spiders. So, yes, these exotic, creepy crawlies are here. (Source)

It is estimated that there are 700 – 1,200 species of spider in Thailand. However, the likelihood is that the number in nature is much higher. This is because not all species have been collected and studied. The remaining are yet to be officially identified. Spiders also come in various sizes depending on the species.

Curious to learn more? Whether you are nervous or excited about the prospect of encountering spiders in Thailand – the good news is you’ve come to the right place.

This guide will cover the most common species of spider you could bump into, the risks involved if you do, and some safety advice.

But first, let’s get this out of the way:

Does Thailand Have Poisonous Spiders?

Some species of spiders possess venom, while others do not. And even though their venom is poisonous, it is designed to be deadly or paralyze their prey, such as insects or small animals. Their venom is not considered poisonous to humans. Severe symptoms, such as toxicity, injury, or death, are extremely rare unless the patient suffers a severe allergic reaction.

Whatsmore, if you avoid Thailand’s forest areas, the chances of encountering a dangerous spider are very low. They are also non-aggressive, so the possibility of being bitten by one is even lower.

The 9 Most Common Types of Spiders in Thailand 

But if you do run into a spider during your trip, it will probably be one of these:

Does this look like a scary list? Time for some exposure therapy…

1. Banana Spider

Banana Spiders are also known as “Golden-Silk Orb Weavers” or “Golden Silk Spiders” because of the golden color of their silk. The female spiders have a large size (around 55 mm) while males are smaller (6 mm) in body size. Both of them have distinctive red-brown and yellow colors. (Source)

Habitat:

The preferred climate of the golden-silk orb weaver is hot and humid. However, they are more commonly found in the forest – leisurely hanging in their web along walking trails or deeply secluded areas.

Diet:

Banana Spiders are good predators. They build large, asymmetrical circular webs (which may be up to 0.5 meters in diameter) attached to trees and low shrubs in woods to catch flying prey. They subdue any prey by injecting venom.

Their diet is mainly small-to-medium-sized insects, such as grasshoppers, bees, flies, moths, etc. 

Risk:

Banana Spiders in Thailand have a reputation for inflicting painful bites. However, they are shy and not known to be aggressive towards humans. So, they rarely bite. If they do, it’s in self-defense.

These bites may cause mild pain and slight redness in the bite area. They generally cause no permanent harm, but there may be some symptoms. In most cases, their venom is not enough to harm a healthy adult human. However, in cases of severe reactions, it is recommended to seek immediate medical care.

2. Jumping Spiders

With over 6,000 separate species, Jumping Spiders are the largest family of spiders. They are pretty small (around 2-20 mm) in size. They can be identified by the four large eyes on their heads, equipping them with superior vision compared to other spiders.

This gives them an incredible ability for courtship, hunting, and navigation. These spiders move relatively slowly but can perform agile jumps when hunting and responding to sudden threats. (6, 7, 8, 9) 

Habitat:

Jumping spiders can be found in a variety of habitats in Thailand. This includes tropical forests (where they are found the most), deserts, and brush lands. They are also present in mountainous regions – and are even seen on the slopes of Mount Everest.

Diet:

Jumping spiders are hunters, and their hunting behavior is often compared to that of cats. With incredible vision, they can stalk and attack any prey from a distance. When it is time to strike, they can jump up to 20 times their body length to capture their prey.

They typically eat ants, flies, and grasshoppers. Although they are predators, some species have been known to include nectar in their diets.

Risk:

Jumping Spiders of Thailand are poisonous but not considered a dangerous species to humans. They only bite humans in self-defense. They do possess fangs and produce venom, but the venom is generally not a medical concern.

Those who do get bitten may get a red or swollen area. In more severe cases, there can be some pain.

3. Cave Spiders

Thailand’s Cave Spiders (also known as Mediterranean Recluse Spider) belong to the Loxosceles genus.

This family contains many of the most dangerous spiders in Thailand and, indeed, the world. They originate from the Mediterranean region. But, nowadays, they can be found in many parts of the world.

It is believed that these cave spiders found their way to Thailand during World War II when ships transported construction materials from Japan.

They can be identified by their three pairs of two eyes organized in a triangle shape and a violin-shaped pattern on their cephalothorax (the portion of the body to which the legs attach).

Cave spiders are medium-size, with both males and females growing to approximately 7-7.5 mm in length. (Source)

Habitat:

Cave spiders are regarded as one of the most invasive species in the world. They can be found in damp areas. As their name indicates, they naturally live in caves. They can also be seen in buildings such as basements and tunnels.

Diet:

Cave spiders can feast on small insects, but their preferred meal is cockroaches and silverfish.

Risk:

Thailand Cave Spiders are poisonous but not harmful to humans. The bite of the cave spiders may cause “loxoscelism,” which causes skin necrosis (such as the death of body tissue).

This can cause severe damage; however, most cases are medically insignificant. Blistering and burning sensations may appear after being bitten for 2-8 hours.

4. Furry Spiders

Furry spiders may include wolf spiders – one of the most common in Thailand. These spiders have eight eyes with excellent eyesight, making them fantastic hunters.

They are very small and furry, with a body ranging between 10 and 35 mm in size. They have distinctive zebra-like striped legs and a tawny and brown double-barrelled body. (Source)

Habitat:

Furry spiders (or wolf spiders) will not be found in webs, as they do not spin them. They live in solitude and without a permanent home. They wander around forests and gardens, mainly grassy and leafy woodland areas.

Some species may build burrows with a trap door. During winter, they may seek shelter and move into houses and buildings in Thailand’s rural areas.

Diet:

These spiders eat insects and other invertebrates. Being brave and powerful, the large females may consume small vertebrates, such as amphibians and reptiles, if they encounter them.

Risk:

Furry spiders in Thailand are not poisonous and not aggressive. They do not threaten people, but their bites may be painful and include swelling and itchiness, or worse, if you suffer an allergic reaction.

However, some species found in Australia have previously been linked to death in humans. Fortunately, there have been no such cases reported in Thailand.

5. Bird Spiders

Bird spiders are a nickname for the famous “Thailand Black Tarantula.” These species are unique tarantulas with dark-colored, fuzzy bodies.

They are one of the larger spiders in Thailand, measuring up to 15 cm and weighing up to 42 grams. The male spiders are smaller and have a shorter lifespan than the female.

As an ‘old world’ tarantula, they tend to be more temperamental and faster-moving compared to more docile and slower ‘new world’ tarantulas. Therefore, the Thailand Black Tarantula has the propensity to bite in self-defense if they feel under threat. (Source)

▸ Check out our complete Thailand Black Tarantula Guide to learn more about their temperament and the difference between the old world and new world tarantulas.

Habitat:

Bird spiders are common in tropical forests throughout Southeast Asia. Like all tarantulas, they are fond of high humidity situations. They live underground by building a deep burrow in soil or tree bark and only leave their home to eat. Many of them can be found in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand. (View Map)

Diet:

Thailand Black Tarantulas are opportunistic carnivores, often consuming birds, lizards, frogs, and insects. 

Risk:

Bird spiders in Thailand are not very aggressive. They are actually quite nervous — however, their high willingness to be defensive means. So, there is a risk that they will bite and cause harm.

Although Thailand Black Tarantulas possess venom that can be pretty painful – their bites are not deadly unless the victim has an allergic reaction. You’ll find more safety advice in our complete guide.

6. Funnel Spiders

Thailand’s Funnel Spiders are a new species of ‘funnel-web spider’ or ‘funnel weaver spider’ from northern Thailand. They resemble the widely distributed species Allagelena opulenta from China, Korea, and Japan.

Their name is about their funnel-shaped webs. They are of medium size. The smallest spider in the Agelenidae family is about 4 mm, while the largest species can grow up to 20 mm. Their bodies are yellow and clothed with short black hair. (Source)

Habitat:

Most funnel spiders are rarely seen because they live in underground burrows or stumps, tree trunks, and plants above the ground. Their burrows are surrounded by opaque silk, and their webs are built-in grass or shrubs.

In Thailand, they live in forests or woodlands with pine trees, such as the Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand. (View on Map)

Diet:

Funnel spiders prefer to feed on insects and small vertebrates, including lizards and frogs.

Risk:

Thailand Funnel Spiders are a relatively new species, and their dangers are inconclusive. If they are similar to those found in China, their venom is one of the insecticidal toxins – agelenin.

However, some of these species can be considered in the bracket of the most venomous spiders in Thailand. This is because their venom is highly toxic, which may cause very severe symptoms that can worsen over time. (Source)

The bite from one of these spiders should be treated as potentially life-threatening – although only approximately 10-15% of bites are venomous.

7. Spindly Spiders

Thailand’s Spindly Spiders can also be known as “Harvestman Spiders,” “Daddy Longlegs,” “Cellar Spiders,” etc.

They are a family of spiders containing over 1,800 species around the world. They are known to be one of the Kingdom’s least threatening to humans. They have a small body shaped like a peanut with skinny and long legs, which is difficult to see from the naked eye.

Habitat:

These spiders are found on every continent in the world except Antarctica. They usually reside in dark and damp areas, such as caves. Or, you may spot one walking up a tree within any of Thailand’s forests. Harvestman Spider also constructs their webs in attics and cellars, which is how they got their name.

Diet:

Spindly Spiders have a diet similar to most other spiders. They feast on small insects, including moths, mosquitoes, caterpillars, larvae, and slugs. Plus, anything else that is small enough to consume. 

Risk:

Spindly Spiders are not venomous as they do not have venom glands or fangs. They are not known to bite or threaten humans.

In fact, they cannot bite humans due to the size of their legs. Whatsmore, the tiny claw-like shapes on their face that are used for gripping bark and prey are too small to break human skin.

Interestingly, there is a popular myth that these spiders are the most venomous spider on earth. But no scientific research supports this, and there are no documented cases of this species biting a human.

So, if you are worried about deadly spiders in Thailand, this species is not the one to focus on.

8. Huntsman Spider

Huntsman Spiders are one of the biggest spiders in Thailand. They are 2 to 2.5 cm long and 7 to 10 cm wide. They have a leg span that can reach up to 2 cm, making them run very fast.

Like all types of spiders, females are usually larger than males. The most interesting thing is they can grow as large as 30 cm. They have a mottled brown and tan color with long, solid legs and a fuzzy body that helps them blend in with the forest’s ground.

Habitat:

Huntsman spiders do not spin a web. They would instead roam around and explore the wooden floor in forest areas. Sometimes they live in caves where their natural camouflage makes them invisible to prey.

However, they may sometimes wander into people’s homes or rural dwellings since they are considered curious spiders, as their name suggests.

Diet:

Huntsman Spiders feed on various insects. Since they do not spin webs, they hunt and inject them with venom. Besides insects, they are also known to feed on scorpions and bats. These spiders are considered helpful to have in homes. By feeding on common bugs, they can provide efficient pest control.

Risk:

Huntsman spiders are quite scared of humans. However, they may occasionally chase people. But this behavior indicates they are afraid and confused, as they dislike biting.

They only bite in self-defense if handled roughly. If you do get bitten, it can be painful. They are indeed venomous, but it is not considered dangerous.

A bite from a huntsman will often only produce moderate symptoms, such as nausea and headache. Their toxin is similar to a bee-sting which will subside in a few days.

9. Giant Orb Spiders Thailand

Giant Orb Spiders Thailand, also known as “Golden Orb-Weaver Spider,” obtained its name from the color of its golden-yellow web.

These spiders are dark greyish-brown with white hair on their heads and chests, with black with yellow spots on their backs. Female spiders are large and grow to 30–50 mm, while males grow to 5–6 mm.

Habitat

Giant Orb Spiders reside all over countries in East and Southeast Asia. They are often found in forests and gardens of tropical climates while preferring not to be in direct sunlight. 

Diet

These spiders are carnivorous. They feast on insects they can overpower (such as grasshoppers, bees, flies, etc.). Sometimes they prey on insects with a size range from 2 mm to even insects larger size than themselves.

Interestingly, they can adjust the ultraviolet radiation reflected by stripes on their body to attract prey. This makes them look like food sources for insects rather than predators. They are active during daylight hours.

Poison

Although Thailand’s Giant Orb Spiders contain venom, they are not poisonous to humans. As with many other spiders, the bite is comparable to just a bee sting, so it is not considered harmful.

Eating Spiders in Thailand

Now you’ve been given the lowdown on Thailand’s spiders – has it allayed any fears?

Now, you’ve probably heard about tourists treating themselves to “an unusual meal” in Thailand. That is, eating insects.

Well, it’s true. Insects are considered an alternative protein source by Thai people, especially those living in rural areas. There are about 200 species of edible insects in Thailand, with around 20 of these usually eaten. The most popular are silkworm pupae, bamboo worms, beetles, locusts, grasshoppers, and crickets.

Interestingly, eating these deep-fried insects has become a cultural phenomenon among tourists.

When you visit any night market in Thailand, you’ll see them for sale on street stalls. If this sounds tasty to you, check out the famous Khao San Road or Chinatown in Bangkok, Bangla Road in Phuket, Chiang Mai Walking Street, or Pattaya Walking Street, and treat yourself to this unique bar snack. (They go well with a Thai beer.)

But do they eat spiders in Thailand?

Spiders are not generally eaten in Thailand. You may see some unlovable insects sold as food at the markets, such as cockroaches, scorpions, and spiders. But it does not mean that most Thai people eat these exotic insects as common food. Fried scorpions and spiders typically cater to daring and adventurous tourists.

Moreover, although it is believed that Thai people have eaten these types of insects in the past, there is no indication that the locals still eat them nowadays.

Will I See Spiders (or Snakes) in My Hotel?

The likelihood of finding a spider or snake in your Thailand hotel room is extremely low. Although Thailand is a tropical country home to a wide variety of spiders and snakes – encountering them is very rare. Especially in major cities and urban areas. However, the chances of seeing a snake are higher than seeing a spider.

This is because coming into contact with a snake is more likely to occur during Thailand’s rainy season. Heavy rain and flooding force snake’s to move from their underground canals. They seek refuge in the home (usually gardens and toilets) in search of food. (Source)

Yet, spiders will only enter a regular household if the owner makes it a habitat that appeals to them. Therefore, it is not common to see any spiders indoors.

In the unlikely event that you encounter a spider in your well-kept urban hotel, you should not be alarmed. As you know by now, Thailand’s spiders are generally not aggressive or deadly.

The same goes for snakes in Thailand. Most of them are non-venomous, and even if they are, they do not pose a threat to people. Just refrain from provoking them!

Did you know:

Even though Thai people may fear snakes, they consider encountering them a sign of good luck and fortune, especially wealth and love. So if you do see one in Thailand, think of the positives…

What to Do if You Get Attacked by a Spider? 

As mentioned, the risk of being attacked by a spider in Thailand is low. Both venomous and non-venomous spiders do not pose an extreme threat to humans.

However, if by chance you get bitten by a spider, you should do the following immediately: (Source)

Less toxic venom or non-venomous spiders 

• Wash the area with soap and water: To reduce the chance of infection.
• Apply ice or cold compress: This will induce numbness and reduce swelling.
• Use a medicated cream: To reduce irritation and calm inflammation (consult a pharmacist).
• Bandage it up: This will protect the wound during the healing phase.
• Monitor the wound: For signs and symptoms of an infection or allergic reaction.

Venomous spiders

• Wash the area with soap and water: To prevent venom and bacteria from causing an infection.
• Apply ice or cold compress: This will induce numbness and reduce swelling.
• Seek medical care or call a doctor immediately: Although their venom is not harmful to humans, it is best to check for a possible allergic reaction, which can become dangerous.

Conclusion 

With its lush rainforests and tropical climate, Thailand is truly a hotspot for biodiversity. This includes being the home for thousands of different types of spiders.

This article has focused on the common species you may see during your visit. However, the chances are low unless you visit one of its many beautiful national parks.

But, you should not fear them. These exotic creatures come with a reputation as being deadly predators.

For insects, yes. For humans, no.

After all, as a tourist to Thailand, you are more likely to eat them than they are to eat you!

Like always, if you want to discover more about Thailand, stay guided with ThaiGuider. You might learn something you never knew about this unique country.

Bibliography

Wanless, F. R. “Spiders of the family Salticidae from the upper slopes of Everest and Makalu.” Bulletin of the British Arachnological Society 3 (5, 1975): 132–136.

Robert R. Jackson et al. “Jumping spiders (Araneae: Salticidae) that feed on nectar.” Journal of Zoology, London 255 (2001): 25–29.

Wolfgang Nentwig et al. “Distribution and medical aspects of Loxosceles rufescens, one of the most invasive spiders of the world (Araneae: Sicariidae).” Toxicon 132 (April 2017).

Saber Sadeghi et al. “Mediterranean Recluse Spider, Loxosceles rufescens (Araneae: Sicariidae) from Charkhab Cave, Southern Iran.” J Arthropod Borne Dis. 2017 March 11(1): 156–160. 

Alireza Zamani and Javad Rafinejad. “First Record of the Mediterranean Recluse Spider Loxosceles rufescens (Araneae: Sicariidae) from Iran”. Journal of Arthropod-Borne Diseases (2014).

David L. Swanson and Richard S. Vetter. “Loxoscelism.” Clinics in Dermatology (May 2006).

Edwards, G. B. “Huntsman Spider, Heteropoda venatoria (Linnaeus) (Arachnida: Araneae: Sparassidae).” EDIS 2003 (16). 

Ross, J., et al. “The life cycle of Heteropoda venatoria (Linnaeus) (Araneae: Heteropodidae).” Psyche: A Journal of Entomology 89 (3-4, January 1982).

Prapasri Puwastien and George A. Attig. Edible insects in Thailand: An unconventional protein source? Ecology of Food and Nutrition 36 (2-4, September 1997):133-149.

The post Does Thailand Have Lots of Spiders? (Are They Poisonous) appeared first on ThaiGuider.

Despite their reputation, tarantulas are not dangerous to humans. Although they possess venom, it is a myth that this is deadly. A bite may cause pain similar to a bee sting. (Source)

Therefore, tarantulas have become one of the most popular exotic pets among arachnid enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you have a fear of tarantulas or are a fan of these furry friends, you might wonder, is there a tarantula in Thailand? Well, you’ve come to the right place.

There are four species of tarantula commonly found in Thailand – Cobalt Blue Tarantula, Thailand Zebra Leg Tarantula, Asian Fawn Tarantula, and the Thailand Black Tarantula. However, researchers have recently discovered two new species of tarantula in Thailand (the Dwarf Tarantula and Bamboo Culm Tarantula), which brings the total up to six.

With its distinctive name and all-black look, the Thailand Black Tarantula is arguably the most talked-about tarantula species in Thailand. In this article, we delve deeper into this intriguing creature.

Keep reading to learn everything there is to know about the Thailand Black Tarantula – such as where to find them, their size and temperament, safety advice, and what to do if you encounter one.

Does Thailand Have Tarantulas?

Did you know? The name tarantula is derived from Taranto, Italy, and was originally given to the wolf spider “Lycosa tarentula” in Southern Europe. (Source)

Tarantulas are typically ground-dwellers that thrive in warm temperatures (24°C – 27°C) and open areas of desert and forest ground. So, they are most commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, such as Central and South America, Australia, Southern Asia, and Africa. (Source)

With dry and well-drained soils and a favorable climate, Thailand provides an ideal habitat for tarantulas and their ‘burrowing’ way of life. Yet, while there are more than 900 different species of tarantulas on earth, it is widely considered that there are only four types of tarantula found in Thailand.

These being:

That was until recently.

In 2017, researchers in Thailand reported a new species of Southeast Asian Dwarf Tarantula in Thailand (a new record of the tarantula genus Phlogiellus Pocock, 1897) (Source)

Whatsmore, in 2022, it was officially announced that JoCho Sippawat, a famous wildlife Youtuber in Thailand, discovered a new genus of the Bamboo Culm Tarantula inhabiting the hollow stems of bamboo plants. This species has been named “Taksinus bambus” in honor of the Thai king Taksin the Great, while Bambus is a reference to bamboo stalks. (Source)

Meaning, that the total number of tarantula species found in Thailand is now considered six.

New World vs. Old World Tarantulas

All tarantulas that live in Thailand are old-world tarantulas.

Old world tarantulas come from the eastern hemisphere, such as Asia, Europe, and Africa (i.e., the “old world”). Old world tarantulas (particularly ones native to Asia) have developed differently from the “new world tarantulas” found in the western hemisphere, such as North, South, and Central America.

They all belong to the Theraphosidae family of spiders. However, new world tarantulas have stockier bodies with more urticating hairs (bristles from their abdomens) that they flick at a threat to defend themselves. They are more docile and slower moving. Whereas old-world tarantulas tend to be more temperamental, move fast, and have a propensity to bite in self-defense. (Source)

Things to Know about Thailand Black Tarantulas

Thailand Black Tarantulas, also known as the “Bird Eating Spider” or “Earth Tiger,” is one of only a handful of tarantulas found in Thailand.

As its name suggests, a distinctive feature is the almost uniform black color without any marks. This species is distributed according to its common name in the center of Southeast Asia.

Taxonomy

Where to Find the Thai Black Tarantula in Thailand?

Thailand Black Tarantulas are common in the forests of Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand). Most of them are distributed in southern Myanmar and southern and eastern Thailand (near the coast of the Andaman Sea).

Khao Sok National Park is a place where Thailand Black Tarantulas are known to live in large numbers.

All tarantulas, including black tarantulas, build burrows in the soil or old tree bark using their silk. By weaving their silk into tubes through the burrows, helps alert them when their prey gets closer. Therefore, once you have made it to the forest, you’ll likely find them living in underground burrows. (Source)

How Long Do Thailand Black Tarantulas Live For?

The life cycle of the Thailand Black Tarantula is pretty much the same as any other spider and involves several phases.

In the wild, the lifespan of a female Thailand Black Tarantula is around 10 – 12 years. Males are much shorter, with a life expectancy of 2 – 3 years, as they die after reaching sexual maturity. Tarantulas as pets can live longer. Males can live up to 10 years, and females up to 30 years.

How Big Is the Thailand Black Tarantula?

The size and color of tarantulas can vary significantly depending on the species and location. Generally, they can range from 11.4 to 28 centimeters in length and weigh from 28.3 to 85 grams. (Source)

The Thailand Black Tarantula is a medium-sized species of tarantula. It can measure up to 15 centimeters in diameter, with a maximum leg span of 13 centimeters and a body span of 7 centimeters. They can weigh approximately 42 grams. As with many other spiders, females are slightly bigger than their male counterparts.

Whatsmore, all tarantulas go through a process called “molting” – essentially, they crawl out of their own skeleton by popping up the top of their head and pulling their body out. During this process, they also replace internal organs.

All tarantulas can grow bigger as they form a new exoskeleton and shed their previous smaller structure. They molt six times in the first year after hatching, then periodically once a year thereafter.

What Do Thailand Black Tarantulas’ Eat?

In the wild, Thailand Black Tarantulas live in areas with abundant food sources. So they do not have to hunt. They are opportunistic carnivores, staying motionless outside their burrow at night, waiting for suspecting prey to pass by.

Despite popular belief, tarantulas do not use a web to trap prey. However, they cleverly leave a thin line of spider silk to signal an alert when something approaches its burrow. Think of a tarantula’s version of a tripwire. (Source)

Whatsmore, they cannot see their prey approaching as they do not have good eyesight. But they can sense it through vibrations with their sensilla (sensory hair). The vibrations get stronger when their prey gets closer, and they are prepared for attack.

The diet of a Thailand Black Tarantula is usually insects, such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. However, tarantulas can eat bigger animals than insects, such as frogs, toads, lizards, rats, and small birds. After a big meal, they do not need to eat for a month.

Can You Keep a Thailand Black Tarantula as a Pet?

Tarantulas are one of the most popular exotic pets. However, most arachnid enthusiasts keep more docile and friendlier ‘new world’ tarantulas as pets.

With Thailand Black Tarantulas being ‘old-world’ spiders, they tend to be more dangerous due to their aggressive behavior and temperament. Therefore, it is recommended that only experts and experienced keepers have them as pets. Caring for them can be pretty complicated. However, you may find them for sale in pet stores.

Their price depends on their age (adults are more expensive) and gender (males are cheaper due to their short lifespan). Typically, they are not very expensive because they are not in very high demand. As a rough guide, you should expect to pay 50-100 USD (1500-3000 THB) for one specimen.

For example, you can purchase a Thailand Black Tarantula online for under $100 USD (3,000 THB).

Are Thailand Black Tarantula’s Aggressive?

Like most tarantulas, Thailand Black Tarantulas’ are generally not terribly aggressive. They prefer to hide, intimidate, and flee from predators or people than confront them.

Therefore, they isolate themselves for most of their existence – usually hiding in underground burrows or logs. However, they can inflict harm due to their high level of willingness to take the defensive.

In the event that they encounter a predator, they will first pose with a threatening gesture.

Thailand Black Tarantula threat posture is standing up, lifting their pedipalps and the first pair of legs, and spreading the chelicerae, to prepare for self-defense.

If the provocation continues, without fleeing, they will attack a few times and finally bite. When they bite, it is quite dangerous to their prey because their fangs contain venom.

Whatsmore, all tarantulas can be more aggressive during the mating season, hunting time, or even when they have a ferocious appetite. This is because of their self-preservation instincts. Therefore, the temperament of a Thailand Black Tarantula is not easy to handle during this time. (Source) (Source)

Is the Thailand Black Tarantula Poisonous?

It is true that all tarantulas, including Thailand Black Tarantulas, are poisonous which can be deadly or have paralyzing effects on insects or even lab rats. However, tarantula toxicity and tarantula-related injury in humans are rare occurrences.

There is a famous myth from 11th century Southern Italy, that “Tarantism,” (a form of hysteric behavior), was caused by a bite of the wolf spider Lycosa tarantula. This popular belief led people to think that tarantulas are dangerous to humans. (Source)

While tarantulas do possess venom, most injuries to humans are related to irritation from the urticating’s hairs on their abdomen. (Source)

What Happens if You Get Bitten by a Tarantula?

The venom of a tarantula is in no way near toxic enough to pose a threat to humans and has no extreme effects.

People who do get bitten by a tarantula tend to suffer from local symptoms similar to a bee sting for several hours. Such as itching, swelling, and mild-severe pain. Sometimes bites can be painless, and symptoms may be delayed for hours or days, depending on the species. 

People who are exposed to tarantulas’ hair can lead to irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. If you are bitten by a tarantula or exposed to its urticating’s hairs, there will be no long-term damage in most cases.

However, some people can be allergic to tarantula venom. In this case, symptoms that may occur are shortness of breath, swelling of the eyelids, itchiness, skin rash, swelling of the lips and throat, tachycardia heartbeat, low blood pressure, and poor circulation (loss of blood flow to organs).

What Should You Do if You Get Attacked by a Tarantula?

The risks of being bitten by any tarantula or experiencing the irritating contact of its hairs are low. However, to prevent such problems, simply avoid encountering them. If you come into contact with one, always keep your face and important body parts at a distance.

Bites

If Thailand Black Tarantula bites, you should do the following immediately:

• Wash the area of the bite with soap and water to reduce the chance of infection
• Apply a cool compress or an ice cube to induce numbness and reduce swelling for 10 minutes and then off for 10 minutes
• Apply a paste of powder with water to decrease irritation
• Apply a cortisone or Benadryl cream to reduce irritation
• Watch out for signs or symptoms of an infection or allergic reactions

Flicked hairs

If a tarantula flicks thousands of tiny hairs toward you, you may experience more issues than a bite– especially if their hairs enter your respiratory tract or eyes.

In that event, you should do the following immediately:

• Be careful not to inhale any of the urticating’s hairs and not to touch your eyes
• If possible, apply duct tape or use tweezers to remove hair from your skin as many hairs as you can 
• Apply a steroid cream to the affected area for several days
• Watch out for signs or symptoms of an infection or allergic reaction

However, suppose you get any allergic reactions or symptoms mentioned above. In that case, you should immediately seek medical attention from a doctor or call an emergency to be advised on proper safety precautions.

You can contact the National Institute for Emergency Medicine by calling the national toll-free general health emergency hotline “1669” from anywhere in Thailand. They will give you further instructions.

Conclusion 

Thailand Black Tarantulas are common in Southeast Asia, but it is unlikely that you will come into contact with one during your visit to Thailand. This is because they generally prefer to hide underground.

But if you encounter one and are accidentally attacked, it is not a danger because their venoms are harmless to humans. But if your symptoms involve an allergic reaction, then seek medical help.

Overall, you are better off avoiding them during your trip, and it is not difficult to do so. However, if you are an arachnid enthusiast, then an excellent place to find Thailand Black Tarantulas is in Khao Sok National Park.

Perhaps you can follow in JoCho Sippawat’s footsteps and find the next tarantula species in Thailand!

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